Hi James
I was looking at what you said the ratio was in your notes, and to an extent
I agree that the ratio should only be points of law decided in the case. But
to my mind, this must include points that were reaffirmed in the case as
well - like the point from House v The King. If a relevant precedent exists,
I think a judge must choose to agree or disagree, and the decision joins the
body of common law - so it is significant that Stein JA reaffirmed that test
of discretion. Otherwise, I can't see that we'd have a ratio to talk about
at all because as far as I can see all the points of law in the case were
ruled upon with regard to established guidelines. Hope that reassures you
.
> Bit of a late response -
>
> With regard to the first point of your ratio, is that actually a point of
> law that was decided in this case? It seems as though Stein JA is merely
> following guidelines that have been previously established (e.g. House v
The
> King). It seems like a valid point... can you please justify the inclusion
> of it to me? I need it to sit well in my mind. =)